Is the divide between white Americans and African Americans based on class, or race? Lower, middle, and high-income families determine someone’s class. Back then the divide was based on class. Africans being brought over to America to be used as slaves instilled that they were nothing more than objects. This caused a class divide between slaves and white people. This class divide was brought upon African Americans because of slavery. African Americans were put at a disadvantage from the start in America. They had harder upbringings because their access to education and simple human rights were limited. How is someone supposed to fight for their rights when they have no say? African Americans were put at a financial disadvantage during slavery and even after. They were forced into slavery and had no way of making money. Even after African Americans were free, they were still being underpaid. White people took advantage of the idea of slavery and forced African Americans into it without them having any say. 

In today’s time the issue is more about race. African Americans have rights now and they have a say in who, or what they want to do. Everyone in today’s time can see an African American and realize that they are their own person, and they are entitled to their own opinions. African Americans are still fighting today for equality. The race issue begins with discrimination and how African Americans still face racism. People can recognize African Americans as individuals, but that does not stop racism unfortunately. African Americans still face disparities in America as well. They face healthcare disparities, as well as financial disparities. African Americans are still put at a disadvantage, which is why there are still BLM protest and movements. African Americans face more of a race issue now, rather than a class.

“Race vs. Social Class Essay.” Bartleby, https://www.bartleby.com/essay/Race-vs-Social-Class-F3WSESYTJ#:~:text=THESIS%3A%20Race%20differences%20in%20identity%20and%20social%20position,of%20social%20division%20and%20stratification%20in%20North%20America.%22.